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Jaya Bachchan demands dedicated emergency lanes for ambulances
NEW DELHI: Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan on Wednesday demanded dedicated emergency lanes on roads for ambulance movement, saying that in India, groceries reach doorsteps in under 15 minutes, pizzas in 30 minutes, but patients bleed to death due to the delay in reaching the hospital. Raising the issue during the Zero Hour in Rajya Sabha, Bachchan demanded that the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health should also look into the issue of patient death due to the delay in reaching the hospital. In a country where groceries reach doorsteps in under 15 minutes, pizzas in 30 minutes via quick commerce platforms, patients bleed to death because ambulances get trapped in traffic, lacking dedicated emergency lanes, despite the Supreme Court's 2018 directive. No national data tracks these tragedies, Bachchan said. 60 per cent of ambulances arrive late, with urban delays averaging 15 to 30 minutes due to an absence of green corridors and police escorts, missing the golden hour for 55 per cent of accident victims. No dedicated lanes on highways, despite the National Ambulance Code 2016. These critical failures need to be taken notice of and dealt with immediately, she stated. She suggested an immediate nationwide mandate for dedicated emergency lanes, with AI traffic signals, prioritizing ambulances, 30-second green corridors, enforcing the Supreme Court's 2018 ambulance corridor directive via Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, penalties on violators, and a high-level probe into ambulance delay deaths. BJP MP Rekha Sharma demanded a gender-sensitive mental health facility for traumatised women in the country. She drew attention towards the severe shortage of accessible gender sensitive mental health support, particularly for survivors of violence, harassment and trauma. While the Modi government's initiatives, such as Tele Manas and district mental health programmes, are commendable, some gaps persist, especially in rural, marginalised, and low-income communities, she said, adding that lack of awareness and scarcity of trained professionals prevent countless women from receiving timely care. Survivors of domestic violence, cyber harassment, acid attacks, trafficking and workplace abuse frequently carry long-lasting psychological scars, she told the House. The mental health system that should support them remains fragmented and under-resourced, she pointed out. She urged the government to deploy dedicated women's mental health counsellors at centres, police stations, and hospitals, ensuring immediate and specialised assistance. Tele Manas outreach should be expanded and integrated with women's helpline, self-help groups, and Anganwari worker network, she said. Mizo National Front MP K Vanlalvena demanded the central government's intervention in the issue of income tax officials harassing tribals of Mizoram. He informed the House that tribals living in specified areas in Mizoram are exempt from Income Tax and should not be harassed by Income Tax officials. BJP MP Laxmikant Bajpayee demanded the setting up of more benches of the high court in Uttar Pradesh, referring to the high pendency of cases in the courts. Subhah Barala (BJP) demanded that the Central Pollution Control Board should carefully look into the issue of water pollution in the country from various sources, which is affecting the lives of people in the country. Sumer Singh Solanki (BJP) asked for government intervention to deal with the high rate of accidents on National Highway Number 3, Sendhwa in Barwani district. He pointed out incidents of road accidents in the Bijasan Ghat area, located on the border of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. The MP demanded building a new road in the area to stop the high incidence of accidents in the area. Manoj Jha (RJD) demanded uniform minimum wages for skilled workers in the country, saying that these are less than what workers of Bihar get in Tamil Nadu or Kerala. AAP MP Swati Maliwal highlighted the issue of sand mining in Punjab and demanded an inquiry into the issue, saying this caused man-made devastating floods in the state this year. Amar Pal Maurya (BJP) demanded setting up an agricultural university in Pratapgarh district.
UP: Former IPS officer arrested in industrial plot allotment fraud case
LUCKNOW: The Lucknow Police on Wednesday arrested a former IPS officer in connection with an alleged case of fraud and forgery related to the allotment of an industrial plot in Deoria district in 1999, officials said. According to the police, the accused, Amitabh Thakur, allegedly misused his official position as the then superintendent of police of Deoria to facilitate the allotment of an industrial plot by the District Industries Centre, in the name of his wife, Nutan Thakur, by using forged documents and false identities. The plot was subsequently sold for alleged monetary gain. DCP (Lucknow West) Vishwajeet Shrivastava said a complaint in this regard was filed by Sanjay Sharma, a resident of Rajajipuram, under the Tal Katora police station limits in Lucknow. The complaint alleged that false names, addresses and forged documents, including application forms, affidavits, treasury challans and transfer deeds, were used to obtain the allotment, while Thakur allegedly extended protection and assistance by misusing his official position, the officer said. Based on the complaint, an FIR was registered on September 12, 2025, under sections 419, 420, 467, 468, 471, 34 and 120B of the erstwhile Indian Penal Code, and a special investigation team (SIT) was constituted by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), he said. During the probe, documentary evidence was collected from Deoria district, verification of the alleged false names and addresses was carried out in Bihar, and statements of witnesses were recorded, police said in a statement. On the basis of the evidence gathered, Thakur was arrested at around 3.45 am on Wednesday from the Maholi border in Sitapur district, officials said. He will be produced before a competent court in Deoria, as the alleged offence pertains to that district.
Bihar: Nitish Kumar asks officials to ensure timely completion of 428 projects worth Rs 50,000 crore
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has directed officials to ensure the timely completion of 428 development projects, collectively valued at Rs 50,000 crore. These projects were announced during his Pragati Yatra from December 2024 to February 2025.
Bihar Staff Selection Commission is hiring 379 Sports Trainers. Applications are open now. Candidates need a bachelor's degree and a sports coaching diploma. The last date to apply is December 14, 2025. Age limits vary by category. Visit bssc.bihar.gov.in for details and to apply. This is a great opportunity for aspiring sports professionals in Bihar.
Lessons from recent transport crises | Explained
In October, trains to Bihar experienced immense rush. In December, the mass cancellation of Indigo flights led to stranded passengers and inflated prices. Low prices of government services do not increase welfare unless accompanied by government investment, while deregulated prices only reduce welfare in the presence of monopolies
Bihar cabinet approves creation of three new departments
The three newly created departments are Youth, Employment & Skill Development, Higher Education, and Civil Aviation; DA hiked for employees, pensioners getting 5th & 6th pay
India on Reform Express drive, Modi tells BJP MPs
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the NDA Parliamentary Party on Tuesday that laws must never place unnecessary burdens on citizens. He said rules and regulations should exist only for peoples convenience, not to make their lives harder. According to a senior NDA source, the Prime Minister told MPs that the government has now entered a full-fledged Reform Express phase, where reforms are moving rapidly and with clear intent. He stressed that all reforms under the NDA government are entirely citizen-centric and not merely economic or revenue-driven, with the goal of removing everyday obstacles so people can reach their full potential. Reinforcing that making life easier for people is the central priority of his governments third term, Modi emphasised that the reforms being undertaken are meant to benefit ordinary citizens directly, not just improve systems on paper. Modi urged NDA MPs to bring forward the real problems faced by people so that the Reform Express can reach everyone. He strongly criticised the long-standing culture of lengthy paperwork, pointing out that it is time to end 30-40-page forms and unnecessary procedures. He underlined the importance of making sure services reach people at their doorstep and stopping repeated data submissions that waste time and energy. He also said that Ease of Life and Ease of Doing Business will remain top priorities for the government. Later, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju briefed the media on Modis message. He said the Prime Minister had given clear guidelines, stating that the most important focus in the governments third term is the Reform Express. Rijiju quoted Modi, saying, Whatever law is framed, it should have no provision which is harmful or causes inconvenience to any citizen. The rules and laws should not become a burden on the life of a common citizen. He added that rules must improve the system, not harass people, and that there should be no law which harasses people without any reason. Modi also reminded MPs that the government had shown trust in citizens by allowing self-certification, which has worked well for ten years without misuse. At the start of the meeting, Modi was felicitated for the NDAs Bihar victory. Sanjay Jha and Upendra Kushwaha garlanded him, and senior leaders, including Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Amit Shah, and BJP president J P Nadda, were present.
Patna Diary | No delay, Nishant should join politics
There has been a buzz around Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumars son, Nishant Kumar, entering politics for a long time. While Nitish has not spoken on the issue so far, Nishant has also not given any clear indication that he wants to join politics. However, the Janata Dal (United) workers and leaders, including Nitishs close aides, are saying that he should take a plunge into active politics. Senior JD(U) leader and minister Shravan Kumar has also joined the chorus and contended that Nishant should join politics without any further delay as it is already very late. Power shock for Tej Pratap yet again There seems no end to the problems of Tej Pratap Yadav, the elder son of Lalu Prasad. First, Lalu expelled him from the RJD and family for six years, which was followed by a humiliating defeat in the Assembly elections. Then, it was learnt that he hadnt paid his electricity bills for his house at Beur in Patna since July 2022, resulting in outstanding dues of Rs 3.61 lakh. Now, there are reports that he has paid the bill. Recently, he hit the headlines when he had to vacate his official bungalow after he lost in the Bihar Assembly polls. He came third in Mahua constituency. Former Bihar CM and alcohol back in focus Former Bihar chief minister and HAM leader Jitan Ram Manjhi has been in spotlight for his views on Nitish Kumars prohibition. Recently, he said he has sent a third request to the present chief minister Nitish for reviewing the liquor ban. It states that if a labourer is going home after work and drinks alcohol, he shouldnt be arrested. But the police let go of those with thousands of gallons of liquor, while they arrest the poor after making them take a breathalyzer test and send them to jail. My father used to make liquor from mahua (raw material) and sugarcane juice; that kind of liquor is beneficial. Today, there are five lakh cases pending against the people from his community, Musahar. Ramashankar Our correspondent in Bihar ramashankar@newindianexpress.com
5% DA hike for over 10L Bihar govt employees
PATNA: The Bihar cabinet on Tuesday approved a 5% hike in the dearness allowance (DA) for over 10 lakh government employees and pensioners and creation of three new departments, including one for employment and skill development. Government employees and pensioners receiving salaries and pensions under the sixth Central Pay Commission will now receive 257% DA instead of 252%. Similarly, those getting salaries and pensions under the fifth Central Pay Commission will receive 474% DA instead of 466%. These revised rates will be effective from July 1, 2025. The cabinet meet also approved the creation of three new departments to fulfil the promise of providing one crore jobs to youth. The new departments include the youth employment and skill development, higher education department, and civil aviation department. We set a target to provide employment to one crore youth in next five years (2025-30). For this, it is necessary that maximum youth of the state be given training for skill development and quality higher and technical education, CM Nitish Kumar said on X.
RSB Dehradun, NCT Delhi win via tiebreakers
Santa Cruz: RSB Dehradun secured a 4-2 win over Bihar Secretariat in a tie-breaker on Day 2 of the All India Civil Services Football Tournament at Santacruz ground. The match ended 0-0 in regular time, setting up a penalty shootout to decide the winner. RSB Dehradun held their nerve, with Abhishek Kandhari, Manish Maithani, Vijaypal [] The post RSB Dehradun, NCT Delhi win via tiebreakers appeared first on The Navhind Times .
Youth beaten to death in Kaimur district
Madhubani DM inspects adoption agency
Liquor worth Rs 40 lakh seized in Gaya
Manjhi alleges elite have easy access to liquor, while poor are targeted
In a candid critique, Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has raised eyebrows over Bihar's prohibition regulations, arguing they disproportionately affect the less fortunate while affluent individuals easily indulge in premium alcohol. He pointed to collusion with smugglers, revealing that illicit liquor was discovered at his own home, situated conveniently near a police station.
FIR against Magahi singer for making obscene song viral
In a surprising turn of events, Patna police have taken action against Magahi artist Anup Pandey due to his recent social media post featuring an inappropriate song. The explicit lyrics and visuals drew fierce backlash, prompting the cybercell and Digha police to intervene. After questioning the singer, music composer, and video director, authorities released them with a stern warning.
HC upholds penalty on ex-DCLR for RTI delay
A former deputy collector in Patna faces a Rs25,000 fine from the High Court for failing to adhere to the RTI Act's requirement for timely information disclosure. The penalty, initially imposed by the State Information Commissioner, reflects the court's condemnation of the officer's lack of professionalism in handling public inquiries.
High Court relief to terminated TMBU employees
In a landmark ruling, the Patna High Court has overturned the termination of eight non-teaching staff members at Tilka Manjhi Bhagalpur University, declaring it a 'complete violation of natural justice.' The court mandated payment of back wages and reinstatement of benefits, underlining the essential principle of the right to be heard.
Woman constable dies by suicide in Kishanganj
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Constable Priyanka Kumar was discovered deceased in her rented home in Kishanganj on Tuesday evening, a suspected suicide. Authorities are exploring potential family disputes as a contributing factor to this tragedy, although no suicide note has been located.
AIMIM MLAs affirm unity after meeting CM
AIMIM Bihar's leader, Akhtarul Iman, has firmly quashed rumors about switching political loyalties following his recent discussions with CM Nitish Kumar. He stressed that their coalition is strong and any changes would thwart progress. The meeting, which included three AIMIM legislators, revolved around pressing local developmental needs and discussions on the establishment of a new army base.
Now, Rs10k reward for tips on illegal mining
In a bold move to tackle illegal sand mining, Bihar's Mines Department has unveiled a Rs 10,000 bounty for anyone who provides confidential information. Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha emphasized the success of ongoing initiatives that have led to significant revenue boosts, numerous raids, and the apprehension of offenders along with confiscation of equipment.
SUV chase leads to arrest, rifle seizure in diara area of Patna
Cabinet clears youth skilling push, DA hike
In a strategic move, the Bihar cabinet has launched an innovative skilling initiative in partnership with NSE to empower students, while simultaneously establishing a specialized youth employment department to enhance career prospects. In a show of support for its workforce, the state has raised the dearness allowance for public employees and retirees.
Monk life project: Western seekers pursue ancient wisdom
Bodh Gaya has blossomed into a vibrant center for those yearning for a deeper understanding of monastic life through the 'Monk Life Project India'. This transformative program, which began its journey in Thailand, has welcomed participants from 23 different countries.
Hit by truck, milk vendor dies in Patna
Gender-based violence rampant in state: Experts
On Human Rights Day, we confront the stark reality of gender-based violence affecting countless women worldwide, as statistics reveal that one in three women suffers from such abuse. In Bihar alone, reports indicate over 22,000 incidents, including domestic violence and dowry-related offenses.
Key member of paper leak gang held in Patna
In a significant breakthrough, the Economic Offences Unit of Bihar Police apprehended Sanjay Kumar Prabhat, an essential figure in Sanjeev Mukhiya's notorious solver gang, during a sting operation in Patna. Prabhat was already under investigation for his involvement in the BPSC TRE-3.0 examination paper leak.
Bihar Gramin Bank now serves 3.5 crore customers
With the recent merger of Uttar and Dakshin Bihar Gramin Banks, Bihar Gramin Bank has emerged as the state's leading bank, boasting the most extensive branch network and proudly catering to over 35 million customers. Commanding a robust 27% market share, this powerhouse is also championing financial literacy across Bihar, leveraging outreach programs in collaboration with Nabard to empower communities.
Bihar cabinet clears three new departments to drive youth jobs, higher education push
RANCHI: The newly formed Bihar cabinet on Tuesday approved the creation of three new departments to ensure better and effective implementation of its schemes and policies, aimed at providing jobs and employment opportunities to one crore youth over the next five years. For this purpose, three new departments, youth, employment and skill development, higher education, and civil aviation. have been created. These are in addition to the existing 45 government departments, cabinet secretariat departments additional chief secretary (ACS) Arvind Kumar Chaudhary told the media in a post-cabinet briefing. A total of 19 decisions were taken at the meeting chaired by chief minister Nitish Kumar. Notably, CM Nitish Kumar had on December 5 announced the creation of three new departments as part of his governments target to generate one crore jobs and employment opportunities in the next five years. Taking to X, CM Nitish said, We set a target to provide jobs and employment to one crore youth in the next five years (202530). For this, it is necessary that maximum youth of the state be given training for skill development and quality higher and technical education. Youth, Employment and Skill Development has been created for the all-round development of youth by equipping them with skills to improve employability. The higher education department will ensure quality education in the state, while the civil aviation department will focus on the expanding aviation sector and enhancing air travel services, the ACS said. The cabinet also rechristened the animal and fisheries resources department as the dairy, fisheries and animal resources department. Similarly, the labour resources department will now be known as the labour resources and migrant workers welfare department. The art, culture and youth department has been renamed art and culture department, Chaudhary added. DA hiked for employees, pensioners under 5th & 6th pay The cabinet approved a five per cent hike in dearness allowance (DA) for employees, pensioners, and family pensioners drawing salary or pension under the 6th Pay Commission. The DA has been increased from 252% to 257%, effective July 1, 2025. Similarly, DA for those under the 5th Pay Commission has been increased by eight per cent, from 466% to 474%, also effective July 1, 2025. New Directorate of MSME formed In another decision, the cabinet approved the industries departments proposal to rename the Directorate of Technical Development as the Directorate of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprise (MSME) to strengthen the sector and make it globally competitive, the ACS said. Directorate of Mines & Geology reconstituted The cabinet also reconstituted the Directorate of Mines and Geology into two separate directorates the Directorate of Mines and the Directorate of Investigation. The Directorate of Mines has been further divided into two deputy directorates: mines and security. The restructuring is expected to speed up investigation processes, Chaudhary said, adding that certain posts have been created for the purpose. Gaya Ji & Munger declared Civil Defence Districts The disaster management departments proposal to declare Gaya Ji and Munger as Civil Defence Districts was approved. Fourteen posts have been created to support the move, which will strengthen strategic and internal security and improve response to natural and man-made disasters. The cabinet also approved the appointment of Mohammad Imdad Raza on compassionate grounds. Raza is the son of BSF Sub-Inspector late Mohammad Imtiyaz, who was martyred during Operation Sindoor. Other decisions The cabinet sanctioned Rs 400 crore for payment of electricity dues of urban local bodies to the two power distribution companies North Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd and South Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd -- for FY 202526. It approved the Bihar Dastavej Lekhak Anugyapti (Sanshodhan) Niyamawali 2025 (Bihar Deed Writers Licence Amendment Rules 2025), under which leprosy-affected persons will be eligible to obtain licences as deed writers. The move aims to support their social and financial empowerment. The finance departments proposal to sign an MoU with the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd (NSEIL) to empower youth and run the Student Skilling Programme was cleared. An MoU with the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Ltd (NIIFL) was also approved for assistance in various state projects. The cabinet approved a corpus fund of Rs 15 crore for the Valmikinagar Tiger Reserve Foundation/Trust. The foundation will utilise the amount for conservation and management activities. It also approved the constitution of the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park Management and Development Society, which will oversee the parks upkeep. Additionally, the cabinet approved the Bihar Electronic Order (Issuance, Execution and Disposal) Rules 2025 and the Bihar E-Sakshya Prabandhan Niyamawali 2025 (Bihar E-Evidence Management Rules 2025). The e-summon rules will streamline digital processes, while the E-Sakshya rules cover electronic evidence, video conferencing, digital signatures, and the management of witness testimony under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
After AIMIM MLAs meet Nitish Kumar, grapevine in Bihar political circles on possible switch to JD(U)
After the three AIMIM MLAs, including State party president Akhtarul Iman, met Mr. Kumar in Patna on Monday (December 8, 2025) said they had gone to meet the Chief Minister to apprise him of concerns regarding their respective constituencies
3 die, 10 hurt in Vaishali bus-autorickshaw collison
West Bengal LoP accuses TMC of 'issuing SC/ST certificates to infiltrators'
KOLKATA: Suvendu Adhikari, BJP legislator and Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly on Tuesday alleged that the ruling Trinamool Congress is holding camps to issue SC, ST and OBC certificates for undocumented infiltrators and fake claimants. Suvendu shared a memo issued by the block development officer (BDO) of Kandi in Murshidabad district to substantiate his allegations against the Trinamool Congress. He showed instances of three such beneficiaries who were issued such certificates allegedly by the BDO after 24 June when the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls started in Bihar. He urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to look into the issue seriously. The Opposition leader requested the national poll body to conduct exhaustive probes into each certificate and cross-verify whether the community is genuinely enlisted as an SC, ST or OBC community by the Centre. Why the sudden panic? Because the Election Commission of India's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise is about to expose their voter fraud racket! The desperation is obvious because a large chunk of Mamata Banerjee's 'vote bank' is unable to link their names to the authentic 2002 Voter List, are staring down exclusion from the draft electoral rolls, he claimed in a post on X. It's a blatant bid to arm ineligible voters with 'certificates' that slyly match the ECI's list of 13 documents for hearings after the publication of draft electoral rolls. An attempt to make a mockery of democracy, by flooding the system with bogus SC/ST/OBC creds, he alleged. Adhikari alleged that efforts were being made to rob the true marginalised communities of their rightful share. Real SCs, STs, and OBCs will watch their benefits evaporate as ineligible people will swarm in, staking unethical claims, he claimed. The WB Govt has the habit of issuing OBC Certificates (mostly religion based) to ineligible people which have been struck down by the Honble Courts. Let the SIR purge the electoral rolls clean, and let Democracy prevail, he added. On the other hand, the Trinamool Congress continued its crusade against the Commission since it announced dates of the SIR process in Bengal. The Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee while addressing in a rally in Cooch Behar district on Tuesday alleged, The Election Commission of India may announce the dates of the assembly polls, scheduled next year, soon after the final voters list is released so that no one can move the court challenging the electoral rolls. Names of many genuine voters are being deleted during the roll revision exercise. People who are still alive being shown as deceased in the voters list by the Commission, she alleged. The Chief Minister during her two-day visit to Cooch Behar on Monday afternoon questioned in the administrative review meeting at Rabindra Bhavan in the district about timing and urgency of the SIR.
Judoka Ritik Sharmas KIUG Triumph Fuels His 2026 CWG Dream
Atal Bihari Vajpayee Indoor Hall: Since relocating to the SAI National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) in Bhopal six years ago, Ritik Sharmas career has experienced a rapid ascent. The young Punjab-born judoka once again highlighted his progress with a commanding performance at the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) Rajasthan 2025. Competing in his fourth KIUG at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Indoor Hall in Udaipur, Ritik, representing Lovely Professional University (LPU), secured his third gold medal, adding to his existing bronze. What made the victory more meaningful was the way he bounced back from a recent setback. Flying straight to Udaipur after a first-round exit at the Asian Open Championships in Hong Kong, Ritik wasted no time dwelling on the disappointment. Instead, he channelled the lessons from his overseas trip into a composed, confident performance, overcoming familiar rival Yash Ghangas in the mens +100kg final. The rivalry between Ritik and Yash dates back to their teenage years. The two first competed in the final of the 2020 Khelo India Youth Games in Guwahati, and even now, as products of the same NCOE, their matchups remain intensely competitive. There are a handful of judokas in our category, so we have known each other for years now. I beat him for the first time in the Guwahati KIYG, and Im glad that I could get the better of him in KIUG 2025 too, said Ritik, emphasising the need for more international exposure trips. Despite being out in the first round, I have come back with a lot of learnings and positives from Hong Kong. What also matters is the mental aspect of the sport, as such exposure trips help you in understanding how the world and Olympic champions approach the game, their techniques, and sparring with some of the best in the world, he added. Ritiks journey started far from Indias main sporting centres, in Gurdaspur, a remote border district in Punjab bordering Pakistan. Growing up, opportunities were scarce, with few organised sports programmes or training centres available. Yet in 2015, at the age of 14, Ritik found his passion for judo and dedicated himself to the sport with steadfast focus. Born to an ASI in the Punjab Police and the youngest of three siblings, Ritik began his initial training at the renowned Shaheed Bhagat Singh JFI coaching centre, which has produced over 50 international and 100 national-level judokas. The foundation he built there kept him steady even as he faced challenges on the global stage. Ritiks journey started far from Indias main sporting centres, in Gurdaspur, a remote border district in Punjab bordering Pakistan. Growing up, opportunities were scarce, with few organised sports programmes or training centres available. Yet in 2015, at the age of 14, Ritik found his passion for judo and dedicated himself to the sport with steadfast focus. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For Ritik, the lack of quality sparring partners in his weight class remains a major obstacle. However, he continues to push his boundaries and is now aiming for the next significant goal of breaking into the 2026 Commonwealth Games squad. Article Source: IANS
EC legally has no right to hold SIR: Congress MP Manish Tewari
NEW DELHI: Congress MP Manish Tewari on Tuesday claimed that the Election Commission legally has no right to conduct the SIR and it must be stopped, as he asserted that many Opposition leaders as well as people now feel the need to raise questions over the poll body's neutrality. Initiating a discussion on Election Reforms in the Lok Sabha, Tewari said the first election reform should be to amend the law of 2023 on the selection of the chief election commissioner and election commissioners. He said the law stipulates that the panel be comprised of the prime minister, the leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha and a cabinet minister. It is my suggestion that two members should be added to this panel -- the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and the Chief Justice of India. If such a committee is formed then 'theek se khela hobega' and it will play an important role in removing the doubts over the Election Commission (EC), Tewari said. The Congress leader said that BR Ambedkar ensured that the EC would be a permanent body. It was expected of the EC that it will work as a neutral umpire, but regretfully I have to say that many members sitting on this side (pointing to opposition benches) and many people feel the need to raise questions over its neutrality, Tewari said. He said Article 327 gave rights to the Parliament to make laws for the voters list and delimitation. I have to say with regret that the Special Intensive Revision (of electoral rolls) is being discussed throughout the country. The SIR is happening in many states, but I am saying with a lot of responsibility that legally EC has no right to conduct SIR, Tewari said. There is no provision for SIR in Constitution or in law. This is just a right to EC that if there is any thing wrong with the electoral roll of any constituency it can correct it for reasons that need to be recorded in writing and made public. Only then you can conduct SIR, you cannot do SIR for whole of Bihar or the whole of Kerala, the Congress leader said. If you have to do SIR then do it separately in constituencies where there is a problem with the electoral roll after recording the problems in writing and then only it can carry out SIR. I would like to ask the government where are the reasons in writing, he said. Stop this SIR. There is no provision in law which allows the SIR to go ahead. You will say that were the SIRs conducted earlier illegal, to which my answer is that multiple wrongs don't make a right, he said. Tewari said that in India's democracy there are two stakeholders -- people who vote as electors and political parties that participate in the poll. Constitution makers ensured that every Indian above 21 years has a right to vote at a time when voting right was given on narrow principles in various countries. He said the biggest election reform was by then PM Rajiv Gandhi in 1988-89 by reducing the voting age from 21 to 18.
Watch: NDA MPs felicitate PM Modi for big victory in Bihar
UP Woman Marries Lord Krishnas Idol In Hindu Ceremony After Receiving A Gold Ring In Prasad
The UP woman visited the Banke Bihari Temple, where she received a gold ring and believed it was a gesture of acceptance from Lord Krishna himself.
NDA MPs felicitate PM Modi for big victory in Bihar
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was felicitated at a meeting of all MPs of the ruling NDA on Tuesday for the coalition's massive victory in the recent Bihar elections. Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah and J P Nadda, who is also the BJP president, were among those present at the NDA Parliamentary Party meeting held at the Parliament House complex here. Modi was garlanded by JD(U) leader Sanjay Jha and Rashtriya Lok Morcha chief Upendra Kushwaha -- both Rajya Sabha members. On Monday, a delegation of NDA leaders from Bihar called on Modi and congratulated him for the alliance's landslide victory in the state polls. During the meeting on Monday, the PM told the NDA MPs to work with more vigour for the welfare of the people after the ruling alliance's resounding victory in the Bihar assembly polls, saying with great victory comes great responsibility. In the 243-member Bihar Assembly, which went to polls last month, the NDA secured 202 seats, paving the way for JD(U) supremo Nitish Kumar to return as chief minister for the 10th time. Among the alliance partners, BJP won 89 seats, JD(U) 85, LJP (Ram Vilas) 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha four.
6 Men Posing As Cops Rob Jewellery Worth Rs 15 Lakh From Teacher's Home
In a shocking incident in the Simratala police station area of Jamui district of Bihar, around six robbers dressed as policemen barged into the house of government school teacher Sanjeev Kumar, and looted jewellery worth nearly Rs 15 lakh.
Two siblings die after consuming laddoos in Aurangabad, probe underway
Speeding car kills elderly man, injures 5 others in Danapur
8 days on, E Champaran boys cremation held back for justice
Rs 3 lakh snatched from fuel station employee in Muzaffarpur
Bihar to get traffic training institute, says Deputy CM
In an ambitious move to tackle traffic chaos, Bihar's Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary has unveiled plans for a dynamic traffic management overhaul. This initiative will see the establishment of a specialized training center for law enforcement and an increase in police workforce dedicated to traffic control.
Robbers posing as cops rob of valuables from teachers house in Jamui
In a shocking turn of events, a teacher's home in Jamui, Bihar fell prey to a bold daylight heist. Five men, masquerading as law enforcement officials, stormed the premises, brandishing batons and a forged warrant to execute a so-called forgery investigation.
Amid IndiGo crisis, rlys help desk becomes lifeline for stranded flyers
RJD functionary shot dead over money dispute in Muzaffarpur
An RJD youth wing president, Mantu Sah, was shot dead in Muzaffarpur on Monday by two unidentified assailants. Police suspect a monetary dispute led to the fatal attack, with the victim's father suggesting Sah had lent money to several individuals. Authorities have taken one person into custody for questioning and are examining CCTV footage.
Admission season kicks off in city schools
Judicial staff seek long-pending reforms
In the heart of Bihar's judicial system, the employees of subordinate courts are reaching a boiling point. For two decades, they have awaited overdue pay scale revisions and promotions. Despite a glimmer of hope offered by the Patna High Court after a January strike, progress remains elusive.
Muslims have right to build Babri Masjid, says JD(U) MP
In a spirited defense of West Bengal MLA Humayun Kabir's mosque foundation stone laying, JD(U) MP Kaushalendra Kumar asserted the importance of constitutional religious freedom. He clearly separated his party's stance from the BJP's condemnation of honoring historical figures like Babur, reiterating a commitment to constitutional values.
Rajgir ordnance factory gets bomb threat, multi-agency probe begins
A bomb threat email targeting the Rajgir ordnance factory, claiming seven devices planted and mentioning ISI and political links, has triggered a high-level investigation. The factory, a crucial producer of advanced ammunition, has been evacuated. Security agencies are working to trace the email's origin and assess the credibility of the dangerous threat.
IndiGo disruptions continue at Patna airport; 10 more flights cancelled
Patna HC acquits 95-year-old man in dowry case
Man who threatened Siwan MP and Barharia MLA held in Bengal
On Monday, a construction worker was apprehended in West Bengal for allegedly issuing death threats to Siwan JD(U) MP Vijaylakshmi Kushwaha and MLA Inderdeo Patel over a demanded sum of Rs 10 lakh. The threats, made from Chennai on December 3, appear to be a misguided attempt at garnering attention.
5 get life term in Aurangabad triple murder case
4 arrested for killing man over property dispute
Patna police have arrested four individuals, including a daughter-in-law, for the brutal murder of Ramesh Mahato over a property dispute. The victim was strangled and trampled to death on a bridge. The motive stemmed from the daughter-in-law's objection to property being willed to her husband's children from a previous marriage. The accused confessed to the crime.
Nitish calls for expansion of Buxar industrial hub
DEHRADUN: After breaking Uttarakhands decades-old political jinx in 2022becoming the first party to win back-to-back mandates since the states creationthe BJP under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has moved with renewed force, pushing landmark measures such as the Uniform Civil Code. As the state turns toward the 2027 Assembly polls, Dhami speaks to Narendra Sethi about his development roadmap and the strategy behind the BJPs bid for an unprecedented third term. Here are some excerpts from the conversation. As Uttarakhand completes 25 years of statehood, how do you assess your governments contribution to this development journey? Uttarakhand has completed 25 years. The people of this state have given the BJP the opportunity to serve for nearly 15 of those years. The 'real' development of the state has occurred during these 15 years. Revered Atal Bihari Vajpayee not only gave us a separate state but also provided a special industrial package early on. Following that, since 2014, the state has continuously received the blessings of Prime Minister Modi ji. The progress achieved over the last 11 years, driven by the cooperation of the Central Government, is visible to everyone. Currently, various projects worth over two lakh crore rupees are underway in Uttarakhand. Through these efforts, the states economy has expanded by 26 times, and the per capita income has grown 17-fold. Uttarakhands economy has surged from 14,501 crore at statehood to a projected 3,78,240 crore in 202425, with per capita income rising from 15,285 to 2,74,064. With the UCC, strict anti-cheating and anti-conversion laws, the states governance model is now gaining national attention. Your government has consistently performed strongly in local body elections. Do you anticipate this trend continuing in the 2027 Assembly polls? Yes, not just local body elections, but the BJP has performed spectacularly in every election held since 2022, including the Lok Sabha elections, Panchayat polls, and Assembly by-elections. Our governments performance and the strength of the BJP organization give us a clear edge in the electoral arena. The opposition lacks any substantive issues, nor is their organization capable enough. Therefore, we are unequivocally set to secure a clear majority in the 2027 elections. Critics argue that recent legislation, particularly the UCC, infringes upon religious freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution. How do you respond to these allegations of constitutional overreach? The government implements every law based squarely on its legislative authority. The people of this state granted the BJP a clear mandate in 2022 precisely to enable us to govern effectively. Therefore, how can any law passed by this Assembly be deemed unconstitutional? Has anyone in this state been prevented from conducting their personal religious or cultural activities as they wish? If not, how can the issue of violating religious freedom even arise? Such claims are propagated only by a few rootless 'professional agitators' whose influence extends no further than social media, having no traction in the real world or among the general populace. The BJPs decision-making process is renowned for its organizational strength. Where do you fit into this structure, and how do you view your role? In the BJP, decisions are made through a structured, long-term organizational vision. Every worker holds importance; no role is inherently small or large. As for my role, the people of Uttarakhand gave the BJP a renewed mandate in 2022a first in the states history. Following this, the party entrusted me, once again, with the responsibility of being the 'Chief Servant' of the state. Your government has been highly active in protecting the states cultural identity and security. How do you define the steps taken in this regard? Uttarakhand is the sacred land of the Char Dhams; divinity resides in every particle here, hence it is called 'Devbhoomi.' We are resolute in preserving this cultural identity. To this end, the government is strictly dealing with forced religious conversions and removing illegal religious structures. We aim to maintain the state's demographic balance. There is significant discussion and apprehension surrounding the Live-in Registration aspect of the UCC. What is your perspective? Live-in registration is a very small component of the entire UCC framework. Its primary function is to strengthen the social security of our sisters and daughters. We believe the Uniform Civil Code must be viewed in its entirety, not just through isolated points. The UCC is fully delivering on its stated objectives. By implementing the UCC, Uttarakhand has shown the way to the entire nation. How do you view this historic decision? The demand for a Uniform Civil Code has existed since before Indias Independence. Now, Uttarakhand has implemented it for all citizens as per constitutional provisions. This can serve as a model for other states; many have already formed committees to study its implementation. More than 10 months have passed since the UCC came into effect, and lakhs of people have registered under it without any issues. This clearly demonstrates that the opposition was rooted in a predetermined agenda, and their apprehensions have proven baseless over these ten months.
Bihars Verdict and the Strategy That Shaped It
Months before the first rally, Shah began laying the framework which included reviewing constituency data, anticipating risks, recalibrating social coalitions and ensuring BJPJD(U) coordination
PM Modi meets NDA MPs from Bihar; urges collective focus on development, fulfilling promises
NEW DELHI: In a show of unity and purpose, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Bihars NDA MPs on Monday at Parliament, marking their first interaction since the alliances historic win in the 243-member Bihar Legislative Assembly. During the meeting, the Prime Minister reviewed the NDAs commitments in the state and reiterated the coalitions shared long-term goal: achieving a Viksit Bharat by 2047. The MPs reportedly shared insights from the recent state elections, where the partnership between PM Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar gained prominence and was informally referred to as NiMo within NDA circles. PM Modi spent considerable time engaging with the MPs and agreed to a group photograph, with nearly 30 members from both Houses standing alongside him. In a post on X, the Prime Minister wrote, translated into English: After the historic victory in the Bihar Assembly elections, meeting the NDA MPs of the state at the Parliament House today filled me with new energy. I was extremely happy to see the determination of my family members in the state to make life easier. He said that Bihars double-engine government would leave no stone unturned in fulfilling the expectations of its people. MPs, speaking on condition of anonymity, said PM Modi encouraged them to act as servants of the people, not just as parliamentarians, and to work collectively to deliver on the promises made during the elections. - pic.twitter.com/abCWCoDMLG Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 8, 2025 Rajya Sabha MP Upendra Kushwaha noted that the meeting was also an opportunity for the MPs to express gratitude to the Prime Minister for the NDAs landslide victory. He said the people of Bihar had placed their trust in the NDA, guided by PM Modi and CM Nitish Kumar, to achieve a Viksit Bihar within a Viksit Bharat. The meeting also touched upon cultural issues, with an MP initiating a debate on Vande Mataram in the Lok Sabha, highlighting its patriotic significance. Other MPs noted that PM Modi remained particularly focused on Bihars development and urged all NDA MPs to work together as a family to deliver on the alliances electoral promises.
No Ambulance, Bihar Man Drags Stretcher With Mother's Body From Hospital To Home
Three men and a woman were seen pushing a stretcher with a body on it in the dead of night in Bihar's Nawada district.
'New energy after Bihar mandate': PM Modi meets NDA MPs; vows to 'leave no stone unturned'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed renewed vigor after meeting Bihar's NDA MPs, celebrating their historic victory in the recent assembly elections. He emphasized the double-engine government's commitment to improving the lives of Bihar's citizens. The NDA's decisive win, securing 202 out of 243 seats, underscores their mandate to fulfill public expectations.
DBT scheme for women, youth soon; to be modelled after Bihar: Uttarakhand BJP
The Uttarakhand government is considering a direct benefit transfer scheme for women and youngsters. This move, inspired by Bihar, has drawn sharp criticism from the Congress party. They label it an 'election bribe' aimed at influencing voters before the 2027 state assembly elections.
BJP MPs welcome PM Modi with Bengal next slogans in Lok Sabha after Bihar victory
BJP MPs in Lok Sabha greeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Bihar ki jeet hamari hai, ab Bengal ki baari hai as he entered to discuss 150 years of Vande Mataram. This slogan signifies the NDA's victory in Bihar assembly polls and their focus on upcoming West Bengal elections.
'With great victory comes great responsibility', PM to Bihar NDA MPs
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with NDA MPs from Bihar. He congratulated them on their significant election victory. Modi emphasized that great victory brings great responsibility. He asked the MPs to work with renewed energy for the welfare of Bihar's people. The focus will be on inclusive development for all. Progress will be prioritized over negativity.
PM Modi To Bihar MPs: Poll Victory Is Just the Beginning Of Greater Responsibility
PM Narendra Modi urged Bihar MPs to continue working for the states development and welfare, reminding them that the real task begins after the election
'Ab party ki kamaan sambhale Nishant': Nitish Kumars son stepping in? Posters spark speculation
Posters advocating for Nishant Kumar, son of Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, to take party leadership have surfaced outside the JD(U) office. This follows the NDA's significant victory in the recent assembly elections. While Nishant has remained largely out of the public eye, unlike political scions Tejashwi Yadav and Chirag Paswan, his father secured a tenth term as Chief Minister.
NDA Parliamentary Party to meet on December 9 as MPs prepare to felicitate PM
The NDA Parliamentary Party will convene on December 9 at the G.M.C. Balayogi Auditorium in the Parliament Library Building. All NDA MPs have been instructed to attend the meeting, where they will also felicitate PM Narendra Modi for the Bihar election victory
NDA MPs to felicitate PM Modi for Bihar election victory during Winter Session
The BJP-led NDA has been allocated three hours for its participation in the Lok Sabha debate, while the full discussion, which will continue in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, December 9, has been allotted a total of 10 hours
Rs 50,000 Incentive: Bihar Invites Applications From BPSC Prelims Qualified Candidates
Bihar Civil Services Incentive Scheme: The incentive is available only once, and women employed in any government department, public sector unit, or state-funded institution are not eligible.
Insider track | Russian folk tune and Indian link
At the Rashtrapati Bhavan state dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu for Vladimir Putin, the Rashtrapati Bhavan Naval Band brought an unexpectedly cheerful moment by playing Kalinka. This famous Russian folk tune, composed by Ivan Larionov in 1860, often appears at diplomatic events as its lively rhythm travels easily across borders. For Indian audiences, the melody also carries a familiar warmth due to its Hindi adaptation, Darling, in 7 Khoon Maaf, sung by Usha Uthup. That connection may explain why it is instantly popular here. Kalinka has appeared at many multilateral gatherings, from BRICS to the SCO summit in Tianjin, where cameras caught it playing as Putin met Xi Jinping. It is not an official anthem, but it is clearly a tune with global stamina. TMCCongress tussle Inside the Trinamool Congress, there is near-total clarity: an alliance with the Congress for next years West Bengal Assembly polls looks unlikely. Despite polite public gestures, the relationship is visibly strained. TMC insiders cite a recent example to show their frustration. While the Congress criticised the electoral roll revision, it failed to provide even one Booth Level Agent when the TMC asked for help with BLOs and objecting to deletions or suspected manipulation. For TMC leaders, this confirms their belief that Congress has virtually no organisational presence in Bengal. As one insider put it, if Congress cannot provide BLAs, why consider them for a pact? For now, the TMC is confident it can win on its own. Polls are month away, but for now the TMC is firm that it doesnt need the Congress in Bengal. Naddas personal touch for TB end It is routine for a health minister to brief parliamentarians on major health concerns. JP Nadda, however, has added an unusual personal layer. He is determined to foster a united political push for a TB-Mukt Bharat and is meeting MPs state by state to build support. The latest WHO report notes a decline in TB cases and deaths, but India still ranks among the eight countries contributing 67% of global cases in 2024. India aims to eliminate TB by 2025. Nadda has already spoken with MPs from large states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar. He is now reaching out to MPs from smaller states. Naddas personal touch may well spur MPs to turn the TB-free India mission into a true jan andolan. For Congress, after RJD, its SP After the Bihar election setback strained its ties with the RJD, the Congress now seems to be drifting apart from another ally, the Samajwadi Party (SP) in Uttar Pradesh. In Parliaments Winter Session, the SP stayed away from the Special Intensive Revision of voter rolls on the second day of the session. Behind the scenes, MPs from both parties blame each other for widening the gap. One SP functionary was overheard saying the party is not interested in an alliance with Congress for the upcoming panchayat elections. Leaders on both sides quietly admit the gap is growing and is now harder to ignore. Navneet Sehgals exit raises eyebrows Navneet Kumar Sehgal arrived at Prasar Bharati in the morning as chairman and, by afternoon, had resigned in a cloud of mystery. He spent the early hours having coffee, attending meetings and smiling through routine interactions, but by late afternoon, his resignation letter lay on the table. The suddenness left bureaucrats stunned. Sehgal, a retired UP-cadre IAS officer known for maintaining good equations with every governmentSP, BSP, BJPseemingly hit an unexpected eject button. Some insiders whisper that a few old friends triggered an online storm that made his position uncomfortable, while others speculate he may be headed toward something bigger and less tied to Doordarshan. For now, only CEO Gaurav Dwivedi knows what unfolded, and he isnt saying a word.
Introspect, dont blame EC for poll loss: NDA to Tejashwi
Three youths injured in clash over land dispute
Auto, car parking barred on key Patna roads
Dumped hospital medicines spark outcry in Madhepura
Begusarai youth cuts choti after house razed
Boy kills grandfather in Jehanabad
Five held, weapons seized in Fatuha
IndiGo cancellations shatter weddings, jobs, medical plans
Jamui wetlands teem with 8k birds; Mongolias bar-headed goose returns
Samrat announces 100 fast-track courts to clear Bihars case backlog
CM approves 5-year plan to boost Sudha products
30 Bihar NDA MPs to meet PM today
Over 2 lakh women take literacy exam under Akshar Aanchal Yojana
Govt plans to establish industrial security force to boost investment
Book fair at Gandhi Maidan draws over 1 lakh visitors in first weekend
SMAT 2025-26 | 10 teams in the fray for four remaining Super League spots
Bihar, the only win-less team in the Elite division after six matches, will hope to avoid relegation, along with Himachal Pradesh, Services and Tripura, who all have just one win apiece
26-year-old youth brutally murdered in Nawada
Bihar government to set up 100 fast-track courts to dispose of pending cases
PATNA: Bihar deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, who is also holding the portfolio of home department, on Sunday announced that 100 fast track courts (FTCs) would be established in Bihar for speedy disposal of pending cases in the courts. The fast track courts aim to reduce the burden on the judiciary and provide due attention and time to cases of a sensitive nature. Chaudhary said that these fast-track courts would lessen the burden on courts considerably, considering that more than 18 lakh cases were pending in various courts of the state. He informed eight fast-track courts have been proposed in Patna, while four courts each will be established in Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, and Bhagalpur. Home Minister said that three fast-track courts each would be set up in Nalanda (Biharsharif), Rohtas (Sasaram), Saran (Chapra), Begusarai, Vaishali (Hajipur), East Champaran (Motihari), Samastipur, and Madhubani. Similarly, two fast-track courts each will operate in West Champaran (Bettiah), Saharsa, Purnea, Munger, Nawada, Jehanabad, Arwal, Aurangabad, Kaimur (Bhabua), Buxar, Bhojpur (Ara), Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Siwan, Gopalganj, Supaul, Madhepura, Araria, Kishanganj, Katihar, Banka, Jamui, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, and Khagaria. In addition, it is proposed to establish one fast-track court each in the Naugachhiaand Bagaha sub-divisional courts. Chaudhary said, cases jointly identified by the district magistrates and superintendents of Police will be disposed of on a priority basis. A large-scale recruitment of personnel will also be undertaken for the establishment of a total of 100 fast-track courts across 38 districts and sub-divisions of the state. A total of 900 positions are proposed for each court, comprising eight types of posts -- bench clerk, office clerk, stenographer, deposition writer, data entry operator, driver, process server, and peon or orderly. As many as 79 courts will be specially set up for the speedy disposal of cases pending under the Arms Act. Bihar government was of the opinion that quick resolution of serious cases like those under the Arms Act would improve law and order in the state, Chaudhary added.
NDA will win big in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu; people have rejected Congress and allies: Shah
Mr. Shah said the BJP and its alliance partners have continued their winning streak by recording a two-thirds majority in the recent Assembly elections in Bihar, and will record a big victory in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, where elections are due next year
Saharsa M Ed student shot at during robbery bid, stable after surgery
